Question

Explain the salient features of Genetic code.

Hint:

Genetic code = triplet, universal, degenerate, unambiguous, continuous, with start (AUG) and stop codons (UAA, UAG, UGA).

Answer 1

The genetic code refers to the set of rules by which the sequence of nucleotides in mRNA is translated into amino acids during protein synthesis. Salient features of genetic code: \begin{enumerate} \item Triplet code: Each codon is a sequence of three nucleotides. Example: AUG. \item Universal: Same codons specify the same amino acids in almost all organisms (exceptions: mitochondrial DNA). \item Non-overlapping: Codons are read one after another without overlapping. \item Comma-less: There are no punctuation marks between codons; reading is continuous. \item Degenerate code: One amino acid may be coded by more than one codon (e.g., leucine has 6 codons). \item Unambiguous: Each codon codes for only one amino acid. \item Start codon: AUG codes for methionine and signals initiation of translation. \item Stop codons: UAA, UAG, and UGA act as termination signals. \end{enumerate} Conclusion:
The genetic code is a highly precise, universal, and conserved system that ensures accurate translation of genetic information into proteins.